Easy insert finger sensor for transmission based spectroscopy sensor

ABSTRACT

An optical physiological finger sensor system including an ergonomic interface shaped into a natural curve of a user&#39;s hand and finger

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE TO ANY PRIORITY APPLICATIONS

This application claims the priority benefit of U.S. Application No.62/662,142, filed Apr. 24, 2018, and U.S. Application No. 62/680,170,filed Jun. 4, 2018, each of which are hereby incorporated by referencein its entirety herein.

Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic priority claimis identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed with the presentapplication are hereby incorporated by reference under 37 C.F.R. § 1.57.

BACKGROUND Field of Use

The present disclosure relates generally to the field of patientmonitoring devices.

Description of Related Art

Physiological monitors measure many important parameters useful inproviding care to a patient. For example, one such physiological monitoris a pulse oximeter. Many physiological monitoring devices that exist onthe market utilize a reusable alligator clip type sensor. These kinds ofsensors are usually placed on a finger to measure noninvasivephysiological parameters and biomarkers through transmissionspectroscopy. A user's finger is placed into an alligator clip sensorand one or more light emitters emit light into the tissue of the patientand one or more light detectors detect the attenuated light aftertransmission through or reflection from the tissue.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure provides a physiological monitoring device.Examples of the present disclosure relate to systems that allow an easyinsert finger sensor. In particular, but without limitation, embodimentsdisclosed herein relate to spectroscopy technologies.

A physiological finger sensor system may include an ergonomic interface,where the ergonomic interface is shaped into a natural curve of a user'shand and a finger.

The finger sensor further can include a pivot release stand. The systemcan include a pin and the pin can include a coil spring. The pivotrelease stand can be located at the deepest end of the first and secondsoft pads. The ergonomic interface can include a display. The system caninclude an algorithm board. The system can include a processor. Thesystem can include a communication board. The system can include abattery. The algorithm board can include RainbowSET® spectroscopyalgorithms that can measure at least nine parameters from transmissionbased spectroscopy. The interface can be a rounded shape.

The finger sensor can be at a maximum opening when a finger is notinserted. The finger sensor can be at a closed position when a finger isnot inserted. The finger sensor can be closed prior to a fingerinsertion. The finger sensor can close once a finger is fully insertedand when the finger contacts the pivot release stand. The pivot releasestand can be on a spring system that can be able to return to anoriginal position when a user's finger is removed out of the sensor andthus leaving the sensor in the most open position while waiting for thenext finger insertion.

The LED emitter can transmit at least a signal through a finger to thedetector. The processor can calculate data based upon signals collectedby the detector.

The finger sensor can be a kickstand sensor. The finger sensor can be abi-directional kickstand sensor. The finger sensor can be a scissor oversensor. The finger sensor can include: a top portion, where the topportion can have a first soft pad and at least one light emitter; and abottom portion, where the bottom portion can have a second soft pad andat least one detector. The finger sensor can include a bottom portion,wherein the bottom portion can have a first soft pad and at least onelight emitter; and a top portion, where the top portion can have asecond soft pad and at least one detector. The finger sensor can be areflectance-based sensor. The finger sensor can be a transmission-basedsensor and a reflectance-based sensor.

A finger sensor system can include: a first housing component that caninclude a first sensor and a first finger placement component configuredto support the first sensor and secure a first finger near the firstsensor; a second housing component that can include a second sensor anda second finger placement component configured to support the secondsensor and secure a second finger near the second sensor; and a displaycomponent.

The first housing component can be disposed on the second housingcomponent.

The first sensor can be a spectroscopic sensor configured to measureRaman emissions. The second sensor can be an optical sensor configuredto measure pulse oximetry.

The first finger placement component can include a sensor cover and aninternal clasp. The internal clasp can include a hinged componentconfigured to support the first finger. The sensor cover can include thefirst sensor. The internal clasp can include a spring configured to pushthe hinged component towards the sensor cover.

The first finger placement component can include a nail lock configuredto secure a fingernail of the first finger. The nail lock can beconfigured to mate with a nail guide. The nail guide can be secured ontothe fingernail. The nail guide can be secured using an adhesive.

The display component can be configured to display data associated withat least one physiological parameter. The at least one physiologicalparameter can include glucose. The data can include the physiologicalparameter. The data can include a graphical representation of variationin the physiological parameter over time.

The third housing component can be configured to support at least onepower source for the first sensor and the second sensor.

A finger sensor system can include: a first housing component that caninclude a first sensor and a first finger placement component configuredto support the first sensor and secure a first finger near the firstsensor; and a display component.

The finger sensor system can include a second housing componentcomprising a second sensor and a second finger placement componentconfigured to support the second sensor and secure a second finger nearthe second sensor.

The finger sensor system can include a third housing componentcomprising one or more hardware processors.

A finger sensor system can include: one or more modular components thatcan include at least one finger well and at least one sensor adjacent tothe at least one finger well.

The finger well can be configured to be embedded in a central portion ofthe one or more modular components. The finger well can be configured tobe adjacent to a central portion of the one or more modular components.

The finger well can include at least one pressure component. The atleast one pressure component can include a spring configured to push theat least one sensor towards an interior of the finger well. The at leastone pressure component can include a clasp configured to apply pressureto a measurement site of a patient.

The finger sensor system can include an alignment lens configured to bedisposed between a finger disposed in the finger well and the at leastone sensor. The alignment lens can be a flexible material. The alignmentlens can be silicone.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a top view of an example device.

FIG. 2 shows a cross-section of the device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 shows another detailed cross section of the device of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 4A and 4B show how a pivot kickstand sensor can be used on adevice.

FIGS. 5A and 5B show how a bi-directional kickstand sensor can be usedon a device.

FIGS. 6A and 6B show how a scissor over sensor can be used on a device.

FIGS. 7A-7E illustrate perspective views of an example multi-sensordevice.

FIG. 8A illustrates an example multi-sensor device with separable sensorunits.

FIG. 8B illustrates an exploded view of the multi-sensor device of FIG.8A.

FIGS. 9 and 10 shows cross-sectional views of an example multi-sensordevice.

FIGS. 11A and 11B show different cross-sectional views of an exampledevice with finger placement component for a Raman sensor

FIG. 12A shows an example nail guide for use with an example device.

FIG. 12B shows an example nail guide lock for use with an exampledevice.

FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrate example display modes of an example device.

FIGS. 14A-14D illustrate perspective views of an example device thatallows for a tissue site to sit inside a center housing portion of thedevice.

FIGS. 15A and 15B illustrate perspective views of an example device thatallows for a tissue site to sit adjacent to a center housing portion ofthe device.

FIGS. 16A-16C show example sensor pressure components of the device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Overview

Examples disclosed herein relate to systems that allow an easy insertfinger physiological sensor. These systems can be used ontransmission-based spectroscopy technologies or reflectance-basedspectroscopy technologies. Currently, many devices on the market placean alligator clip type sensor on a finger to measure parameters andbiomarkers noninvasively. Additional challenges exist with current pulseoximetry and co-oximetry noninvasive sensors. Current pulse oximetry andco-oximetry noninvasive sensors require a user to place his or herfinger in a clothespin style clip. This action can require both hands ofthe patient or a clinician to ensure accurate placement. Additionally,placement accuracy of the emitter and detector windows relative to thepatient's measurement site can be difficult to achieve with an alligatorclip type sensor. Placement of the windows is important in obtaining avalue when measuring. Systems and methods described herein seek toimprove the placement of transmission and reflectance basedspectroscopic sensors at a patient tissue site. For example, in the caseof a finger, a device that allows for consistent and ergonomic fingerplacement with relation to the sensor can allow for more consistentsensor measurements due to ease of use and increased precision of tissuesite placement. Systems and methods described herein relate to an objectthat the hand is placed onto, around or within. The present disclosureprovides an inviting ergonomic experience for a user.

Components of an Example Sensor Device

FIG. 1 shows a device 100. The device 100 can have a rounded formstructured shape 110 with a natural curve so as to be inviting for auser's hand. The device 100 can embody all required hardware to measureone or multiple parameters directly from reflectance-based ortransmission-based spectroscopy. The device 100 can have a finger sensorcomponent 120 and a display 130. The device 100 can have a structure inthe back such as a ring or finger/hand anchor to prevent the user fromdropping the device 100. The device 100 can have a physical port, suchas a USB port, to connect with smart phones, computers, tablets, orother devices to transmit data. The device 100 can also wirelesslytransmit data. The device can have a processor to further processcollected data. The device 100 can have a rechargeable battery port, USBcharging, wireless charging components (such as but not limited to Qi),or a direct power input port. The device 100 can have audio featuressuch as a speaker, microphone, audio output, and volume adjustment. Thedevice 100 can have display brightness or contrast features. The display130 can be a touchscreen. The display 130 can also be an integratedbutton. The display 130 can have capacitance or projected capacitanceabilities to respond to touch inputs. The device 100 can have a screenlock feature. The device 100 can be made out of drop resistant material.The display can be made out of scratch resistant or shatter resistantmaterial. The device 100 can come in different sizes for adult or childuse. The display 130 can flash different colors to indicate a status ofthe user.

FIG. 2 shows a cross-section of the device 200. A cross section of theform structured shape 210 and a cross section of the finger sensor 220are presented. The finger sensor 220 can be a modular attachment to thedevice 200. The finger sensor 220 can have at least one emitter 230 andat least one detector 240. The emitter 230 can be an LED. The detector240 can be in the inner most location of the finger sensor. The fingersensor 220 can have two soft pads 250, 260 for the user's finger whenthe finger is inserted.

The two halves of the finger sensor can be connected with apivot-release stand. The pivot release stand can have a pin and coilspring that places a specific amount of force on to the finger beingmeasured. The pivot release stand can be placed at the deepest end ofthe sensor's soft pads 250, 260. A momentum-based spring can applypressure from either the top or bottom sensor pads. A momentum-basedspring can also be used in a mechanical reaction in response to a userinserting his or her finger. An electronic trigger can also be used inresponse to a user inserting his or her finger into the sensor portion.The pivot release stand can be in an open position prior to inserting afinger. The pivot release stand can be in a closed position prior toinserting a finger. The pivot release stand can be opened and closed bya lever, switch, or button. When the finger is removed, the pivotrelease stand can return to its original position and can open thesensor.

A spring kickstand 270 can be placed in the finger sensor 220. Prior toinserting a finger, the spring kickstand 270 of the finger sensor 220can be at a maximum opening. The spring kickstand 270 of the fingersensor 220 can also be in a closed position prior to finger insertion.The finger sensor can also be in connection with a lever, switch, orbutton to open the finger sensor 220 prior to finger insertion. When afinger is inserted and pushes or contacts the spring kickstand 270, thespring kickstand can become under tension and close the finger sensor220. Optionally, a user can use a different finger to manipulate thespring kickstand 270 to cause the finger sensor 220 to open and close. Aswitch, button, or lever can be located externally and be in connectionwith the spring kickstand 270. The finger sensor can also have dualentry points for two fingers or an opposite entry point for anotherfinger. The finger sensor can also be located on the back of the device200 or on the front of the device 200.

FIG. 3 shows a detailed example of a cross section of the formstructured shape 310 or the device 300. The device 300 can contain adisplay 320. The device 300 can contain an algorithm board 330. Thedevice 300 can contain a communication board 340. The device 300 canhave a battery 350. The algorithm board 330 can use algorithms such asthe RainbowSET®, available from Masimo corporation of Irvine, Calif., orother algorithms to process the data collected by the detector. Thebattery 350 can be a lithium battery. The battery 350 can berechargeable. The battery 350 can have wireless or wire based charging.The components of the device 300 described herein can be modular.

Operation of Example Sensor Device

FIGS. 4A and 4B shows a pivot kickstand sensor 420 that can be used on adevice 400. FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B shows a user can use his or her finger440 to use the device 400. As shown in FIG. 4A, the pivot kickstandsensor 420 can be opened to a maximum size prior to finger insertion.The pivot kickstand sensor 420 has a kickstand 450 that can be uprightprior to finger insertion. The pivot kickstand sensor top can have aspring-loaded rotational pivot 460.

As shown in FIG. 4B, the pivot kickstand 420 can close once the fingeris inserted and hits the kickstand 450 or pivot release stand. The usercan hold the device 400 based on the contours of the form structuredshape 410. When a user's finger 440 enters the pivot kickstand sensor420, the user can feel the walls of the pivot-release stand press down.This movement against the pivot release stand wall can release thedownward clamping force of the pivot kickstand sensor 420. This pivotrelease stand can also be on a spring system. The pivot kickstand sensor420 can be closed once the finger 440 is inserted and hits the kickstand450. When a user's finger 440 is removed from the pivot kickstand sensor420, the kickstand 450 can engage back into place and can leave thekickstand pivot kickstand sensor 420 in an open position while waitingfor the next finger insertion. The display 430 can show the data thatthe detector collects from the emitters, instructions for the user,commands to the user, or other indications as described herein.

FIGS. 5A and 5B shows a bi-directional kickstand sensor 520 can be usedon a device 500. FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B shows a user can use his or herfinger 540 to use the device 500. The bi-directional kickstand sensor520 allows either hand to operate the device 500. As shown in FIG. 5A,momentum springs 522 can be in a loaded position prior to finger 540insertion. The finger kickstand 550 can also be in an upright positionprior to finger insertion. A pivot with a rotational spring 560 can alsobe used. As shown in FIG. 5A, the bi-directional kickstand sensor 520can be opened to a maximum size prior to finger insertion. The userplaces his or her finger 540 into the kickstand bi-directional kickstandsensor 520 sheath until a clicking sound or other audible signal can bemade. The sound or audible signal can notify the user of proper finger540 placement. A pivot notch can create the clicking sound.Alternatively, the device's pivot notch can also provide a tactilefeedback system to signal to the user that the finger is placedproperly.

As shown in FIG. 5B, once the finger is inserted and hits the fingerkickstand 550 or pivot release stand, the bi-directional kickstandsensor 520 can close. The user can hold the device 500 based on thecontours of the form structured shape 510. When a user's finger 540enters the bi-directional kickstand sensor 520, the finger kickstand canbe held down by the finger 540. The user can also feel the top pad 570extend to press against the finger 540. When a user's finger 540 isremoved from the bi-directional kickstand sensor 520, the fingerkickstand 550 can engage back into place and can leave the sensor in anopen position to wait for the next finger insertion. The display 530 canshow the data that the detector collects from the emitters, instructionsfor the user, commands to the user, or other indications as describedherein.

FIGS. 6A and 6B shows a scissor over sensor 620 can be used on a device600. FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B shows a user can use his or her finger 640 touse the device 600. As shown in FIG. 6A, the scissor over sensor 620 hasa bottom pad 650. Prior to a finger 640 insertion, the scissor oversensor 620 can be in an open position. When a user places his or herfinger 640 on the bottom pad 650, the pivots 660 of the scissor oversensor 620 activate to slide the scissor over sensor 620 over the finger640. The user can hold the device 600 based on the contours of the formstructured shape 610.

As shown in FIG. 6B, the scissor over sensor 620 can close while theuser is pressing on the bottom pad 650. When the user removes the finger640, the scissor over sensor 620 can return to the original openposition. The display 630 can show the data that the detector collectsfrom the emitters, instructions for the user, commands to the user, orother indications as described herein.

Example Multi-Sensor Device

FIGS. 7A-7E show perspective views of an example multi-sensor device700. The device 700 can include multiple different types of sensors. Forexample, the device 700 can include components relating topulse-oximetry sensors and/or spectroscopic sensors capable of detectingRaman emissions. The device 700 can embody all required hardware tomeasure one or multiple parameters directly from the sensors. The device700 can have one or more sensors for one or more fingers on a user'shand. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 7A, a device 700 can have twosensors 710 a, 710 b. The device 700 can have a first sensor in a firstfinger placement component 710 a capable of measuring a physiologicalparameter from a tissue site on an index finger 720 a and a secondsensor in a second finger placement component 710 b capable of measuringa physiological parameter from a tissue site on a ring finger 720 b.

As illustrated in FIGS. 7B and 7C, the device 700 can have a display 730capable of displaying data relating to parameters measured by the system700. For example, as described below, the display 730 can be capable ofdisplaying a parameter value and/or displaying a graphicalrepresentation of historical parameter values.

As illustrated in FIGS. 7D and 7E, the device 700 can include a housing740. The housing 740 can include one or more case components 750 to holdhardware components in place within the device 700. The housing 740 caninclude one or more finger placement components 710 a, 710 b that cancontain sensors (not shown). The finger placement components 710 a, 710b can include finger placement components, as discussed in furtherdetail below, that can be capable of aiding finger positioning inrelation to one or more sensors (not shown) within the device 700. Thefinger positioning components 710 a, 710 b can be unique to a sensortype or the same for multiple different sensors. For example, a Ramansensor can require consistent placement of a user's fingernail inrelation to the sensor. Thus, finger positioning components for a Ramansensor can be capable of holding a fingernail in place. In anotherexample, a pulse oximetry sensor may not require as similarly consistenta placement as a Raman sensor. Thus, finger positioning components for apulse oximetry sensor can be different from the finger positioningcomponents for a Raman sensor.

Separable Units

FIG. 8A shows a view of an example multi-sensor device 800 withseparable units. The device 800 can include multiple units (for example,810 a, 810 b, 810 c) that can contain sensor and other hardwarecomponents and a display unit 820. For example, a device 800 can includea pulse oximetry unit 810 a, a Raman unit 810 b, and a processing unit810 c. However, more or fewer units are possible. Unit 810 a can includea pulse oximetry sensor and associated hardware components. Unit 810 bcan include a Raman sensor and associated hardware components. Unit 810c can include other hardware components such as one or more hardwareprocessors and power and battery components. Any unit can be a part ofanother unit or can be separate and the hardware components can beswitched or mixed within each unit. For example, the display unit 820can be a part of a unit 810 a or a separate component. Each unit caninclude one or more electrical connections so as to operate the unitswith a single processing unit or a single power source. Additionally oralternatively, each unit can be independently operable.

The units (for example, 810 a, 810 b, 810 c) can be separated orcombined in any suitable order combination within a device 800. Theunits can be stackable. For example, the device can include the displayunit 820 placed onto a hardware unit 810 c. The hardware unit 810 c canbe placed onto the pulse oximetry unit 810 a. The pulse oximetry unit810 a can be placed onto the Raman unit 810 b. It will be understoodthat other combinations of units are possible.

The units (for example, 810 a, 810 b, 810 c) can secured in placethrough any suitable securing mechanism. For example, units 810 a, 810b, and 810 c can include at least one interlocking mechanism 830, suchas screw threads, clasps, notches or any other suitable interlockingmechanism. The interlocking mechanism 830 can also protect interiorcomponents of the units from outside damage, such as water damage orother sources of damage to electronic components.

Finger Placement

As shown in FIG. 7A, a device 700 can have multiple finger placementcomponents 710 a, 710 b capable of holding a sensor for measuring tissuesites on multiple fingers 720 a, 720 b. The finger placement componentscan be oriented in such a way as to allow for multiple fingers on thesame hand to be simultaneously measured by the sensors in device 700.For example, the finger placement components (for example, 710 a and 710b) can be oriented on the device 700 such that there is a sufficientamount of room for a user's fingers to rest comfortably. Each fingerplacement component can be capable of receiving a finger. A fingerplacement component can be capable of receiving more than one type offinger. Additionally or alternatively, in other examples, a fingerplacement component can be capable of receiving only one type of finger.For example, a finger placement component 710 a can be capable ofreceive finger 720 a or 720 b. In another example, a finger placementcomponent 710 b can only receive finger 720 b.

Example Finger Placement Components

FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate cross-sectional views of example fingerplacement in an example multi-sensor device 900. FIG. 9 illustrates across-sectional view of an example pulse-oximetry unit 950. As shown inFIG. 9, a pulse oximetry unit 950 can include a finger placementcomponent 960. The finger placement component 960 can be composed of asingle or multiple parts. For example, the finger placement component960 can have a cover component 962. The cover component 962 can beconfigured to enclose or cover (partially or entirely) a tissue site.The finger placement component 920 can be of sufficient length, width,and depth to receive a human digit 970, such as an index finger, at alocation close to a sensor (not shown) such that a tissue site on thehuman digit can be measured by the sensor.

FIG. 10 illustrates a cross-sectional view and FIGS. 11A and 11Billustrate example perspective views of an example Raman sensor unit 910with finger placement component 920. As shown in FIG. 10, a Raman sensorunit 910 can include a finger placement component 920. The fingerplacement component 920 can be composed of a single or multiple parts.For example, the finger placement component 920 can have a hingedcomponent 922 designed to approximately conform to the shape of thefinger 930. The hinged component 922 can be connected to a hinge 928.The hinge 928 can be part of a spring mechanism capable of pushing thefinger 930 towards a sensor or a cover component 924. For example, thefinger placement component 920 can additionally or alternatively have acover component 924. The cover component 924 can house a sensor. Thespring mechanism can push the finger 930 towards to sensor in the covercomponent 924. The cover component 924 can be configured to enclose orcover (partially or entirely) a tissue site. The finger placementcomponent 920 can be of sufficient length, width, and depth to receive ahuman digit 930, such as a ring finger, at a location close to a sensor(not shown) such that a tissue site on the human digit can be measuredby the sensor. The finger placement component 920 can include a fingerstop 926 to prevent the finger 930 from misplacing relative to a sensorwithin the finger placement component 920.

FIGS. 12A and 12B illustrate example securing components 1200 that canbe part of or used in conjunction with an example Raman sensor unit 910.FIG. 12A shows an example nail guide 1210. The example nail guide 1210can be placed onto a finger 930. For example, the nail guide 1210 can beplaced onto a fingernail 935 of a finger 930. As shown in FIG. 12B, thenail guide 1210 can mate with a nail lock 1220. The nail guide 1210 canmate with the nail lock 1220 through a variety of suitable mechanisms.For example, the nail guide 1210 can mate with the nail lock 1220 with asnap-fit, a clasp, a sliding-fit or other suitable mechanism. The nailguide 1210 and the nail lock 1220 can secure the finger 930 in place atthe fingernail 935 during a physiological measurement. For example, whenthe nail guide 1210 is in place, the nail lock 1220 can prevent thefinger 930 from sliding or rotating side to side or back and forth.

The nail guide 1210 can be secured using an adhesive. The adhesive canallow the nail guide 1210 to be placed onto a finger 930 for an extendedperiod of time. For example, the nail guide 1210 can be adhered to thenail 935 for a period of 1 day to 1 week. The benefit of adhering thenail guide 1210 for an extended period of time is that it allows formore consistent placement of the finger in the device 900 over thatperiod. For example, a user can perform multiple non-invasivemeasurements of a physiological parameter over the period of a day. Ifthe nail guide 1210 is secured in the same spot of the nail 935 for thatperiod, then the measurements of the physiological parameter will be ofapproximately the same tissue site due to the finger 930 being secure insubstantially the same way while the nail guide 1210 is secured in thesame spot.

While the systems and methods mentioned above can be described inreference to a particular sensor or sensor unit, the components can beused for any type of sensor, sensor unit, or finger placement device ormechanism.

Example Display Modes

FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrate example display modes of a device 1300. Asillustrated in FIG. 13A, a device 1300 can display a physiologicalparameter value 1310. For example, a device 1300 can be capable ofmeasuring blood glucose. The device 1300 can have a glucometer mode,where it displays a blood glucose value on the display 1330. The unitsof measurement, size of text, and other relevant display settings can becustomizable by the user.

As illustrated in FIG. 13B, the device 1300 can have a parametervariation display mode. For example, a user can make measurements of aphysiological parameter using the device 1300 over a period of time. Thedevice can access those values and display a graphical representation1320 of those values on a display 1330. For example, where thephysiological parameter is blood glucose, the device can display a graphof blood glucose values over time. The period of time over which a graphcan display data and other relevant display settings can be customizableby the user. Additionally or alternatively, the device 1300 can displaydata 1340 associated with a physiological parameter measurement. Forexample, the device 1300 can measure blood glucose. The device 1300 candisplay whether the currently measurement blood glucose is within apredetermined range. For example, the device 1300 can display that thecurrent blood glucose measurement is in a moderate range.

Alternative Configurations

FIGS. 14A-14D show a device 1400 that can include a central housingportion 1430 with one or more finger wells 1410. The central housingportion 1430 can be an area of the device 1400 in which hardwarecomponents are stored. The central housing portion 1430 can include asingle sensor or hardware unit or multiple sensor or hardware units. Forexample, the device 1400 can include a single unit with multiple sensorsand their associated hardware. Additionally or alternatively, the device1400 can include multiple units that can each contain one or moresensors and/or hardware components.

As illustrated in FIGS. 14A and 14C, the device 1400 can include one ormore finger wells 1410. A finger well 1410 can include an opening forreceiving a finger or other tissue site for measurement by a sensorwithin the device 1400. A finger well 1410 can be wide enough and deepenough to comfortably receive a finger of a patient. The finger well1410 can be narrow enough so as to not allow for excessive fingermovement within the device 1400. The finger well 1410 can provide aguide for a patient to insert their finger so as to guide a desiredmeasurement site (for example, on the finger) towards a sensor 1450within the device 1400.

As illustrated in FIG. 14D, the device 1400 can include a port 1460. Theport 1460 can be capable of providing power to the device (e.g. throughdirect power or through battery charging), transmitting information toor from the device, or any other suitable purpose that may use anelectrical connection. Additionally or alternatively, the device 1400may wirelessly receive power or may wirelessly communicate informationto or from the device.

FIGS. 15A and 15B show a device 1500 that can include a central housingportion 1530 with one or more finger wells 1510. The central housingportion 1530 can be an area of the device 1400 in which hardwarecomponents are stored. The central housing portion 1530 can include asingle sensor or hardware unit or multiple sensor or hardware units. Forexample, the device 1500 can include a single unit with multiple sensorsand their associated hardware. Additionally or alternatively, the device1500 can include multiple units that can each contain one or moresensors and/or hardware components.

The device 1500 can include one or more finger wells 1510. The fingerwells can be in a finger placement component 1540 adjacent to a centralhousing portion 1530 of the device 1500. A finger well 1510 can includean opening for receiving a finger or other tissue site for measurementby a sensor. The sensor can be placed within the finger placementcomponent 1540 or at another location adjacent to the finger well 1510.A finger well 1510 can be wide enough and deep enough to comfortablyreceive a finger of a patient. The finger well 1510 can be narrow enoughso as to not allow for excessive finger movement within the device 1500.The finger well 1510 can provide a guide for a patient to insert theirfinger so as to guide a desired measurement site (for example, on afinger) towards a sensor (not shown) that can be part of the device1500.

The device 1500 can include a port 1520. The port 1520 can be capable ofproviding power to the device (e.g. through direct power or throughbattery charging), transmitting information to or from the device, orany other suitable purpose that may use an electrical connection.Additionally or alternatively, the device 1500 may wirelessly receivepower or may wirelessly communicate information to or from the device.

Example Sensor Pressure Components

FIGS. 16A-16C show examples of sensor pressure components that can beused as part of a device 1600. A device 1600 can use one or morecomponents to press or push the tissue site towards the sensor or thesensor towards the measurement site. For example, as illustrated in FIG.16A, a device 1600 can include a sensor component 1680. The sensorcomponent 1680 can include a sensor or sensor housing (not shown) and aspring system 1640. The spring system 1640 can exert a force against asensor or sensor housing that can push the sensor towards a measurementsite (for example, a portion of the finger 1610). The device 1600 may ormay not include an activation component 1650. The activation component1650 can be a pressure sensitive device, such as a button or spring. Theactivation component 1650 can be activated by applied pressure (forexample, by a finger 1610). When activated, the activation component1650 can cause the spring system 1640 to push the sensor towards themeasurement site.

As illustrated in FIG. 16B, a device 1600 can include a sensor component1690 and a hinge component 1670. The sensor component 1690 can include asensor or sensor housing 1692 and may be able move with respect to acentral housing component 1620. For example, the sensor housingcomponent can operate to clamp onto a finger 1610 when pressure isexerted onto an activation component 1660. The sensor housing componentcan clamp onto the finger 1610 by pivoting around the hinge component1670. The hinge component 1670 can include a spring loaded hinge. Theactivation component 1660 can be a pressure sensitive device, such as abutton or spring. The activation component 1660 can be activated byapplied pressure (for example, by a finger 1610).

As illustrated in FIG. 16C, the device 1600 can include a sensor 1650within the device 1600. The sensor 1698 can be adjacent to the finger1610 when placed into the device 1600 so as to measure at the tissuesite. The device 1600 can have a hinged rest 1694 for the finger 1610.The hinged rest 1694 can approximately conform to the shape of thefinger. The hinged rest can be connected to a spring loaded hinge 1696.When a finger 1610 is placed into the device 1600, the spring loadedhinge 1696 can push the hinged rest 1694 towards a sensor or support1698.

With continued reference to FIG. 16C, a device 1600 can include one ormore alignment structures 1682. The alignment structure 1682 can beflexible so as to approximately conform to the shape of a finger 1610during use. For example, the alignment structure 1682 can be a siliconealignment lens. The silicone alignment lens can be capable oftransmitting light or radiation from the sensor towards the finger 1610.The silicone alignment lens can be flexible so as to approximatelyconform to the shape of the finger 1610. The shape may be imposed whilethe lens or other structure is under pressure or may have apredetermined shape.

Terminology

Many other variations than those described herein will be apparent fromthis disclosure. For example, depending on the embodiment, certain acts,events, or functions of any of the steps described herein can beperformed in a different sequence, can be added, merged, or left outaltogether (e.g., not all described acts or events are necessary for thepractice of the algorithms). Moreover, in certain embodiments, acts orevents can be performed concurrently. In addition, different tasks orprocesses can be performed by different machines and/or computingsystems that can function together.

Conditional language used herein, such as, among others, “can,” “might,”“may,” “e.g.,” and the like, unless specifically stated otherwise, orotherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intendedto convey that certain embodiments include, while other embodiments donot include, certain features, elements and/or states. Thus, suchconditional language is not generally intended to imply that features,elements and/or states are in any way required for one or moreembodiments or that one or more embodiments necessarily include logicfor deciding, with or without author input or prompting, whether thesefeatures, elements and/or states are included or are to be performed inany particular embodiment. The terms “comprising,” “including,”“having,” and the like are synonymous and are used inclusively, in anopen-ended fashion, and do not exclude additional elements, features,acts, operations, and so forth. Also, the term “or” is used in itsinclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used, forexample, to connect a list of elements, the term “or” means one, some,or all of the elements in the list. Further, the term “each,” as usedherein, in addition to having its ordinary meaning, can mean any subsetof a set of elements to which the term “each” is applied.

Disjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y and Z,”unless specifically stated otherwise, is to be understood with thecontext as used in general to convey that an item, term, etc. may beeither X, Y, or Z, or a combination thereof. Thus, such conjunctivelanguage is not generally intended to imply that certain embodimentsrequire at least one of X, at least one of Y and at least one of Z toeach be present.

Unless otherwise explicitly stated, articles such as “a” or “an” shouldgenerally be interpreted to include one or more described items.Accordingly, phrases such as “a device configured to” are intended toinclude one or more recited devices. Such one or more recited devicescan also be collectively configured to carry out the stated recitations.

While the above detailed description has shown, described, and pointedout novel features as applied to various embodiments, it will beunderstood that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in theform and details of the apparatus or method illustrated can be madewithout departing from the spirit of the disclosure. As will berecognized, certain embodiments of the inventions described herein canbe embodied within a form that does not provide all of the features andbenefits set forth herein, as some features can be used or practicedseparately from others.

1. A finger sensor system comprising: an ergonomic interface, whereinthe ergonomic interface is shaped into a natural curve of a user's hand;and a finger sensor.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the finger sensorfurther comprises a pivot release stand.
 3. The system of claim 1,wherein the system further comprises a pin and the pin comprises of acoil spring
 4. The pivot release stand of claim 2, wherein the pivotrelease stand is located at the deepest end of the first and second softpads.
 5. The system of claim 1, wherein the ergonomic interface furthercomprises a display.
 6. The system of claim 1, wherein the systemfurther comprises an algorithm board.
 7. The system of claim 1, whereinthe system further comprises a processor.
 8. The system of claim 1,wherein the system further comprises a communication board.
 9. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein the system further comprises a battery. 10.The system of claim 6, wherein the algorithm board comprises ofRainbowSET® spectroscopy algorithms that can measure at least nineparameters from transmission based spectroscopy.
 11. The system of claim1, wherein the interface is a rounded shape.
 12. The system of claim 1,wherein the finger sensor is configured to be at a maximum opening whena finger is not inserted. 13-60. (canceled)
 61. A finger sensor system,the system comprising: one or more modular components comprising: atleast one finger well; and at least one sensor adjacent to the at leastone finger well.
 62. The finger sensor system of claim 61 wherein thefinger well is configured to be embedded in a central portion of the oneor more modular components.
 63. The finger sensor system of claim 61wherein the finger well is configured to be adjacent to a centralportion of the one or more modular components.
 64. The finger sensorsystem of claim 61 wherein the finger well comprises at least onepressure component.
 65. The finger sensor system of claim 64 wherein theat least one pressure component comprises a spring configured to pushthe at least one sensor towards an interior of the finger well.
 66. Thefinger sensor system of claim 64 wherein the at least one pressurecomponent comprises a clasp configured to apply pressure to ameasurement site of a patient.
 67. The finger sensor system of claim 61comprising an alignment lens configured to be disposed between a fingerdisposed in the finger well and the at least one sensor.
 68. The fingersensor system of claim 67 wherein the alignment lens comprises aflexible material.
 69. The finger sensor system of claim 67 wherein thealignment lens comprises silicone.